Name: 2003 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Brand: Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

EPA MPG: NA

RECALL ALERT: There are 7 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 7 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Owner Reports

Owner Satisfaction Owner Satisfaction

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

Mercedes-Benz vs. Other New Car Brands

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2003 Luxury midsized cars Ratings

2003 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

$3,975 - $8,200

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Acura RL

$3,950 - $4,000

EPA MPG 20 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Acura TL

$3,575 - $4,225

EPA MPG 22 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Audi A6

$3,125 - $4,250

EPA MPG 20 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 BMW 5 Series

$3,975 - $5,100

EPA MPG 21 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Cadillac CTS

$3,175

EPA MPG 21 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Infiniti M

$3,975

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Jaguar S-Type

$3,275 - $4,700

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Jaguar X-Type

$3,075 - $3,575

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Lexus ES

$4,775

EPA MPG 24 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Lexus GS

$5,125 - $5,200

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Lincoln LS

$3,250 - $3,600

EPA MPG 22 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Volvo S80

$3,175 - $4,375

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Volvo V70/XC70

$ NA

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

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Model History

2024-

Current Generation

The redesigned E-Class midsized luxury sedan coddles occupants with a comfortable ride and quiet cabin, yet its agile handling makes this stately sedan fun to drive. The base turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the E350 we tested gets a mild-hybrid system that returned a commendable 28 mpg overall. Other than an annoying initial delay of power caused by the engine stop/start system, we found this to be a strong and polished powertrain. A more powerful turbo six-cylinder comes in the E450 4Matic model. Both are mated to a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission. The swanky cabin is swathed in stitched leather, muted chrome, and matte-finish wood. The front seats are comfortable and the rear seat offers decent room for two adults. Most controls remain complicated and distracting, however; even simple tasks, such as adjusting the audio volume via touch-capacitive sliders, are a chore.

2017-2023

2017 Redesign Year

The redesigned E-Class delivers nimbler handling and better fuel economy than the previous generation. On the other hand, it dials back on ride comfort, interior room, and user-friendliness. The E300's 241-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder is linked to a nine-speed automatic. This combination works well, but it won't set your heart on fire. Then again, we got a commendable 24 mpg overall. The car is quiet and handles with newfound agility. Though the ride is comfortable, it lost some plushness. Inside, the dash features high-resolution displays, but the controls have grown more complicated. Even adjusting the seat's lumbar support is a multistep process done through the central controller and screen. New technology gives the E-Class the ability to follow the road and steer itself temporarily as a driver-assist feature. Changes for 2018 include new coupe and convertible body styles, powered by a 329-hp 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 hooked up to a nine-speed automatic. An E400 sedan also joins the line with the same powertrain as the new coupe and convertible. Finally, a fire-breathing AMG E63 S wagon and sedan are new, and get a 603-hp 4.0-liter V8 turbo. For 2019 the V6-powered version becomes E450. An E53 gets a mild hybrid setup with a straight six-cylinder engine. Changes for 2020 include a new name for the entry-level model, now called E350 instead of E300, and a boost in horsepower – now 255 hp. Also, blind spot warning is standard on all trims. 2022 models get a freshening with new tail lights and standard adaptive high-beam assist.

2010-2016

2010 Redesign Year

Though it is refined and quiet, we didn't find the 2010 redesign as impressive as its predecessor. Handling is capable, but the steering isn't as communicative as it used to be. Subsequent updates, including revised steering, moved the car back to benchmark status. Our diesel-powered BlueTec test model, (with the Luxury package), provided a more comfortable ride and surprisingly, better steering feedback. Interior accommodations are plush, with comfortable and supportive seats and excellent fit and finish. The Luxury trim is sporty enough; the Sport version has a very firm ride. A convertible, wagon, and coupe are also offered.

2007-2009

2007 Redesign Year

In total, our testing proved the updated 2007 Mercedes E350 a delight to drive. We found it to be quite solid, with an inviting blend of luxury and practicality. The E350 provides excellent ride comfort and agile handling. Rounding out the package is a beautifully constructed and roomy interior featuring supportive seats and good outward visibility. Still though, as is common among the higher-end German cars, we found some of the controls to be overly complicated.

2003-2006

2003 Redesign Year

The E-Class had long been among the best cars CR has tested, traditionally combining a first-class cabin with agile handling and a smooth ride. Redesigned for 2003, the E-Class provides a superb driving experience, combining a very comfortable ride with agile handling, a quiet cabin, and excellent fit and finish. However, we can't recommend the car. Demerits include a transmission that's a bit slow to respond and some awkward controls. The electronic braking system with "brake assist" makes brake modulation non-linear and touchy in some routine stops. Complaints also centered on awkward audio- and too easily unintentionally activated cruise controls.

1996-2002

1996 Redesign Year

Redesigned for 1996, the E-Class sedan and wagon offer precise handling, effortless performance, and an excellent ride. In fact, the E320 4Matic (AWD) wagon is one of the best vehicles we've tested. Acceleration is spirited and fuel economy respectable. The seats are very comfortable. Engine choices over the years include a 3.2-liter V6, 4.2- and 4.3-liter V8s, an inline-6 turbodiesel, and a high-performance 5.5-liter V8. All are mated to a smooth five-speed automatic transmission.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

2003 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

Crash and Rollover Tests

Crash and Rollover Tests

Mercedes-Benz vs. Other New Car Brands

Owner Reports

Mercedes-Benz vs. Other New Car Brands

Mercedes-Benz vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash and Rollover Tests

2003 Luxury midsized cars Ratings